This garment is the best of both worlds—knitting plus fabric in which both get to do what they do best and most easily: the smaller pieces are shaped and knit to fit; the larger pieces are just fabric rectangles that provide the “yardage.”

Here’s what to love about making it. • It’s great fun to mix your fabrics and fibres. • The knitting is intermediate and the sewing is beginner. (You may use, but don’t need, a sewing machine.) To see how it all comes together, read through the pattern’s headings: that’s the best way to simplify a process before stepping into it. • Whatever time you spend knitting, the sewing and assembly can be done in an afternoon. (And this pattern includes lots of helpful notes and photos.) • As you put it together, you’ll love it when you attach fabric to bodice, you’ll admire it when you attach fabric to sleeve, but the magic happens when the cuff is added.

And here’s what to love about wearing it. • This comfortable style looks good on most body types, paired with today’s skinny pants. • The fabric will hold its shape when you sit on it (meaning it won’t go butt-sprung as knitters say and as knits sometimes do) • You’ll get compliments every time you wear it—so many that you’ll want to make … three! Like me! (I am now working on a fourth—to go with a new pair of skinny yellow jeans!)